Public Service Cabinet Secretary Geoffrey Ruku has called on Kenyan youths to prioritize dialogue and peaceful engagement over violent protests, warning that destruction of property and infrastructure only deepens the country’s challenges rather than solving them.
Speaking during an interdenominational service at Maria Consolata Iriamurai Parish in Mbeere South and Mung’ethu, Ruku acknowledged the frustrations many young people are facing but emphasized that unity and constructive discussions are key to addressing their concerns.
“To the young people of the Republic of Kenya—our sons and daughters—we love you and we are your fathers. We have only one country, and we can only solve our problems by sitting together and talking,” said Ruku. “Destruction of infrastructure does not offer any solutions. Our strength is when we are united.”
His remarks come ahead of planned protests on Wednesday to commemorate the anniversary of last year’s June 25 Gen Z demonstrations. The CS warned the opposition against exploiting such movements to sow division along tribal lines, asserting that any attempts to incite violence will be firmly rejected by peace-loving Kenyans.
“We have seen efforts to create chaos. We want peace, not the violence that occurred in Meru,” he said.
Ruku emphasized that the government, led by President William Ruto, remains committed to resolving the issues facing young people across the country. He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to inclusivity, noting, “There is no Kenya of the opposition and another of the government—we are one nation.”
He further highlighted strides made by the Kenya Kwanza government in uplifting historically marginalized communities like Mbeere. Key developments include a Sh2 billion water supply project, the Kamburu bulk water initiative, and the upgrading of the Kiritiri-Kiambere road to bitumen standards.
Ruku assured residents that the government’s focus is on improving the lives of all Kenyans, regardless of political affiliation, and urged the youth to be part of the transformation through dialogue and peace.
